Dulwich Project

This project involved working with a young family leading busy lives, who sought the expertise of an interior designer to bring a fresh, modern touch to their home. The transformation included a newly tiled entryway and powder room on the ground floor, along with a bespoke fitted utility area and clever storage solutions. We updated the lighting, reimagined the furniture and layout in their period-style living room, and introduced stylish yet functional design choices throughout.

The renovation also addressed practical needs, such as replacing the original wooden sash windows and adding elegant shutters, while upstairs, we reconfigured the master bedroom to enhance its layout and introduce new furnishings. The entire house was redecorated from top to bottom, with carefully chosen feature wallpaper in a calming palette of blues to tie everything together beautifully.

This approach balanced modern updates with timeless touches, creating a refreshed yet inviting home that works perfectly for the family’s lifestyle.

Project Description

Click on the title below to view more about the project.

Creative Process

At the beginning of every project, we start with a detailed design analysis. This is a vital step where I take the time to understand my clients, their preferences, and their lifestyle. Inspiration can come from a variety of sources, and in this particular case, my clients were drawn to a stunning abstract painting in soft blues and greens.

This artwork became a key reference point throughout the design process, guiding the choice of colours, textures, and finishes for the entire home. By translating the essence of the painting into the mood boards, we created a cohesive and harmonious visual representation of the design concept, ensuring that every element felt connected and meaningful.

Space Planning

Once we had a clear understanding of the clients' wants and needs through the design analysis, we moved on to planning the spaces with functional layouts. This stage begins with creating 2D floor plans, which allow us to explore various furniture arrangements and optimise the flow of each room.

For example, we compared how the space would feel and function with an L-shaped sofa versus alternative configurations, ensuring the layout not only suited the dimensions of the room but also enhanced its usability and comfort. By carefully considering both form and function, we were able to create spaces that seamlessly balance practicality and style.

Material Selection

For the entrance hall, we took the opportunity to introduce quality, colour, and a touch of period charm. Working with the talented team at London Mosaic, we selected a tile pattern that was true to the home’s heritage and complemented our blue palette. These striking tiles stretch the length of the house, flowing seamlessly into the powder room and utility area for a cohesive look.

While my clients initially considered wooden flooring throughout, we opted for carpet in the main living areas to prioritise comfort for their young children. Practicality and functionality were key to creating a home suited to their family’s current needs.

Colour Schemes

With my clients’ love of colour and pattern, developing the palette for their home was an enjoyable and collaborative process. Taking inspiration from the abstract painting referenced in our mood boards, we introduced a beautiful floral wallpaper Feather Flora Soba in the living room.

Working alongside the team at Paint & Paper Library, we curated a paint schedule of blues and neutrals that complemented the wallpaper and reflected their joyful approach to design. To celebrate the home’s period features, we used a combination of mid-strength tones and deep, rich blues to highlight details like the dado rails and cornices, creating a cohesive yet vibrant atmosphere.

Furniture and Decor

This project required a careful balance of sourcing new furniture while thoughtfully incorporating my clients’ existing pieces. We selected a range of items, including sofas, occasional chairs, coffee tables, upholstered pouffes, and a dressing table, ensuring each piece was both stylish and functional.

To add a unique touch, vintage mirrors were planned and installed by the lovely team at The Antique Mirror Company in two decorative niches on either side of the master bed, beautifully framing the space and enhancing its character. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, creating a cohesive and personalised design.

Lighting Design

My clients’ creative thinking and willingness to experiment with design led to their introduction of a playful yet elegant lighting installation by the Dutch brand Moooi Flock of Light. Known for their breathtaking and innovative designs, Moooi takes its name from the Dutch word for "beautiful," with the extra “O” symbolising something extraordinary in both beauty and uniqueness.

This installation became a focal point, enhancing the space’s ambiance with its striking design and adding a touch of individuality to the overall scheme. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful lighting can transform a room into something truly memorable.

Execution and Installation

One of the key benefits of working with an interior designer is gaining access to their trusted network of skilled professionals. At Ixia London, we introduced a roster of highly experienced electricians, plumbers, glass installers, sash window specialists, and painters and decorators to bring the design to life.

We carefully reviewed all quotations, ensured quality control throughout the process, and coordinated the schedule to fit around the clients’ busy family life. Products were ordered and delivered ahead of time to ensure they were ready on-site when needed, keeping the project running smoothly and on schedule.

Quality Control

Ixia London are available throughout the project but also at the end, to handle the inevitable snagging that is meticulously managed and also to pick up any last-minute client changes or requests.

Project Unveiling

The proof is in the pudding, there is nothing more wonderful than reading the lovely reviews from my clients at the end of the project. "Kirsty, and her teams, have been amazing to work with. She brings great tradesmen and experts and really offers a full-service approach to design and delivery of a project. We've worked with her through the course of nearly a year and she has patiently advised, project manager and ensure the quality completion of all of our works. We couldn't be more pleased with the results!"